Data Privacy Week
This week marked the annual Data Privacy Week. And we know that cybersecurity is critical when it comes to protecting data privacy and the integrity of information systems. Personal and corporate data are constantly at risk from malicious actors. A strong cybersecurity program is essential for safeguarding this data and maintaining the trust of customers, employees, and other stakeholders.
Components
One of the most important aspects of a strong cybersecurity program is the regular monitoring and testing of systems.
The Responsibility of Cybersecurity
In the healthcare industry, HIPAA sets rules and regulations around the requirements of protecting patient data. But in the “rest of the world”, professionally speaking there are unspoken rules, but not the same type of enforcement program in place. A lawsuit might be considered the equivalent of a HIPAA fine – both damaging but perhaps in different ways.
Cybersecurity is (or should be) a critical concern for businesses of all sizes. With the increasing frequency and sophistication of cyber threats, it is more important than ever for businesses to maintain a robust cybersecurity program. This program should be an integral part of a company’s overall risk management strategy and should be taken seriously by all stakeholders.
Phishing: Targeted Attacks
The threat of phishing remains prevalent in all aspects of digital life. Both personal and professional. But a recent deep dive by Mandient into the details of a more specific kind of attack that is on the rise. This shines a light on the threat of industrial-themed email attacks and how they can affect operational technology.
What is Operational Technology?
Operational technology is the hardware or software that monitors and sometimes controls industrial equipment.
Human Error
Major Impact
Earlier this week the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) announced a nationwide ground stop of all flights. Approximately 9,000 flights were delayed, and over 1,000 flights were canceled. The reason why?  The NOTAM system (short for Notice to All Air Missions), which is designed to provide real-time information to pilots and air traffic controllers with critical information before takeoff, was down. This system is designed to alert you of such things as runway hazards or unsafe weather conditions and is therefore critical to safety.
New Year’s Resolution: Train More
Which resolutions have you set for yourself in 2023? Let me guess: get fit, eat healthily, and hit the gym on a regular basis. These are good choices, but how about another way to incorporate training into your schedule? And this one may pay off in dollars saved, not pounds lost.
Why Train?
Cybersecurity training should not be a negotiable part of any business structure.
Social Security Scams
Social Security Scams
While many of us are taking time at the end of the year to enjoy our friends and family’s company and goodwill, cybercriminals are using it as an opportunity to scam people. One such opportunity comes with the end-of-year renewal of programs and policies. And Social Security scams are one of the most reported to the government. They target individuals who receive benefits because this demographic can be more vulnerable when it comes to falling for scams.
Last Minute Scams
Quick! Get to the store for that forgotten gift…order online and pay for overnight shipping…whatever it takes to get the gift in hand for the holiday ahead! We know the holidays are coming, but inevitably we are scrambling to get some things done at the last minute. And where there’s an opportunity, there’s a scam.
As we scramble, scammers are on the prowl to find us. We’re in a rush, preoccupied with a dozen things on our minds and our guard is down. The perfect target to take advantage of. We’ve discussed the holiday scams that are prevalent, but this increases as the date of gatherings and celebrations draw near.
AI: Artificial Intelligence
Artificial Intelligence (AI) is gaining popularity among everyday consumers like so many technologies, through social media. Just take a quick look in your newsfeed and you’re likely to see your friends in otherworldly scenarios they’ve created with Magic Avatars from Lensa.
With over 4 million downloads in the first part of December, it’s clearly a hit. But is it safe? With any app, you should read the privacy policy and terms of use before downloading, especially when it involves your biometric data. But users should be aware, the risks don’t stop there.
Holiday Scams
End of year wrap-up has many of us in a hurry. We rush to get our businesses buttoned up, our shopping done, and our tasks completed so that we can enjoy the time off.
Along with our tendency to rush, is the feeling of merriment and goodwill, and we may assume everyone else is operating from the same place or intent. That may be nice, but don’t be fooled by cybercriminals waiting to take advantage of your own good intentions.
Let’s discuss a few of the more common scams that can be prevalent during the holiday season.
Combat Phishing with Breach Secure Now’s Training Solutions
You are familiar with phishing. You’ve taught your clients and colleagues to be on alert for fraudulent emails. But are you changing your approach to education and training to match the sophistication of cybercriminals and their tactics?
Smart Phishing
Teaching effectively doesn’t necessarily mean endless bits of content and methodologies. It means that each lesson and tool should have an impact on users.